Stiff sentence handed down to importer of counterfeit ‘safety critical’ devices
More than 106 000 non-compliant circuit breakers and earth leakage devices not accounted for ... an estimated 25 000 premises are at “significant risk”.
For his role in importing nearly 124 000 counterfeit CBi earth leakage devices and circuit breakers from the Peoples’ Republic of China, Abdool Kadar Omar Khan (55) – sole proprietor of the businesses trading under Akronix and South Star Technologies in Lenasia – was convicted in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, Johannesburg, on June 2 for contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) Act 5 of 2008.
A raid at Khan’s premises in November 2011 uncovered 17 683 counterfeit CBi earth leakage devices and circuit breakers. It was discovered that, of the imported consignments of these safety critical protection devices, 106 295 counterfeit devices had already been sold. Consequently, according to court papers, it is estimated that the people who live and work in at least 25 000 businesses and homes are potentially exposed to “significant risk”, including fire, electrocution and death.
Sparks Personality of the Month
Reggie Nxumalo is the general manager of Philips Lighting Southern Africa. A natural-born leader, Reggie exudes confidence and dynamism. He is inspired and inspiring and actively encourages others to discover their true potential by enabling rather than controlling, and empowering rather than rewarding.
As a teenager, Reggie received a life-changing scholarship that provided him with unexpected opportunities and today, Reggie is passionate about giving back to the community and especially to the less fortunate.
Columns
In his July column, Working Knowledge, Terry Mackenzie Hoy relates three tales that summarise why electrical contractors should regard personal safety and the safety of all work on site is extremely important. Equally important is to remember that lawyers make money out of one party claiming from another. No matter how much time elapses or how unlikely the claim, they will claim if they can. And they will claim from you
In his monthly column, Getting to grips with SANS 10142-1, Hannes Baard ‘shakes the ‘Regulations Tree’ while he discusss the Electrical Installation Regulations 2009 – remembering, of course, that the Regulations are an extension of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) – and which can be seen as a ‘broad strokes user manual’ explaining how to approach things and how to do them in a little more detail than described in the Act itself ...
Mark Palmer’s column will return in August.
In July, Nick du Plessis says it’s important to determine the impact of the possible recession on learning and development, identify key positions and ensure that you train and maintain these key staff members – and when the upturn begins, you will be ready to reap the rewards.
Mark Mfikoe’s column will return in August
Contractors’ corner
This regular feature covers new products and industry news – and in the July issue, we report on ABB’s inauguration of its microgrid at its premises in Johannesburg; City Power’s prestigious award; the new products launched by CBI-electric at African Utility Week; Eskom’s recognition of small businesses at the upcoming Small Business Expo at the Dome from 8 – 10 September; and ACDC’s range of circuit breakers that exceed international safety standards. We also cover the largest multi-million rand high voltage gas-insulated switchgear board at the new Sebenza substation and the appointment of Vally Padayachee as AMEU’s new strategic advisor. Garry Lumpe’s ergonomic screwdriver sets are featured along with Megger’s digital low resistance ohmmeters and Three-D Agency’s new range of tools.
Cables and cable accessories
This popular feature covers a new pipe and cable locator from Rycom; Legrand’s range of modular enclosures; Brady’s automated cable identification; Comtest’s multifunction installation testers and Pratley’s tough rectangular junction box for harsh environments.
Buyer’s Guide
The July buyer’s guide lists manufacturers and distributors of products and services that cover the spectrum of cables and cable accessories from MV cables to conduit, and from specialised cables to crimp tools and cutters.
Standby and Emergency Power
In the July feature for standby and emergency power readers will find Vert Energy’s focus on green energy and sustainable solutions; JB Switchgear’s appointment as distributor for Efficient Power gensets; Zest WEG Group’s solutions that transcend conventional standyby supply; and Schneider Electric’s Galaxy 300 UPS in 60 kVA and 80 kVA models.
Lighting
New products, lighting installations and technological advances are highlighted in the regular lighting feature. In July, Eurolux shows off its maintenance-free range of Italian lighting products; BEKA’s LED highmast retrofit for Eastern Cape townships; Philips Lighting’s LEDs designed to withstand peak voltages; Enlite LED highbays Aurora; and Major Tech’s LED rechargeable portable emergency lights.
